January 2023: Tarot spread for the new moon in Aquarius

Plus some journaling questions, an astro-tarot forecast, an exploration of the Sabian symbol, and additional resources for the January 2023 new moon in Aquarius.

The January 2023 new moon falls in the sign of Aquarius. The independent, free-thinking Aquarius archetype encourages us to examine our inner wild self and celebrate everything that makes us unique. It is the archetype of the reformer, the idealist who strives for tolerance, unity, and a better and brighter society. And despite these rather lofty ideals, the Aquarius archetype isn’t afraid to get in there and get its hands dirty.

Spiritually, the Aquarius archetype teaches us how to be true to our own voice, to listen to and follow the calling of our own heart and soul. By learning how to tune in rather than out, by being true to the things that make us unique, we undertake the journey to individuation.

The January 2023 new moon also brings into focus the ways in which we communicate and the power of owning your voice. This isn’t always an easy thing – to speak your truth. There’s a lot of anxiety that it can bring up, around how you are perceived; how your words translate; and what people may think of you. It can lead to fears of being “found out” or ostracized – neither of which is a rational fear!

You could also find yourself in a reflective mood at this time, teasing over a particular long-held belief or way of showing up in the world. Or perhaps, you may just need some time to rest or introspect. If that is the case, do honor that impulse.

Astro-tarot influences for the January 2023 new moon in Aquarius

To throw some more light on the January new moon astrology, let’s take a look at the astro-tarot influences of this lunation. The Aquarius new moon falls in decan 1, which is represented by the 5 of Swords. This is to be interpreted in conjunction with The Star, which is associated with Aquarius.

And with hope, coming as it does after the shattering of The Tower, gifting us a moment of calm, of healing, an opportunity to dream into a new evolution…a new version of ourselves. The first new moon of the year is an excellent time to plant seeds, set intentions, and consider what you would like to call in to your world in the year to come. Falling as it does in 1 degree Aquarius, this new moon presents us with a fresh slate, a clean start, and a gentle new beginning.

Along with the fresh new energy on offer is a reminder to be more aware of where your attention is flowing. This Aquarius new moon asks you to redirect your focus to what truly matters to you, and to the things that are within your locus of control. Pay attention to the way the media you consume {news, social media, newsletters, blogs, courses, websites, everything!} makes you feel. If it doesn’t feel good, it may be time to eliminate, or at the very least drastically limit how much of your attention and time you spend on it.

Equally, this Aquarius new moon invites us to examine our own self talk, and the ways in which we compare and judge ourselves for our real and perceived flaws. This is also a good time to contemplate or journal your way through any questions or ways of being in the world that may have changed for you in the last couple of years.

For me, for example, a lot of the things that I thought were important pre-pandemic no longer feel necessary. But a lifetime of thinking one way doesn’t fully change that quickly. I’m constantly going back in and questioning, defining, and refining how I want to show up for this life of mine. This new moon is a good time to reassess what you value, what makes you tick, and turn ever so gently towards the direction that feels most resonant for you at this time.

Sabian Symbol for the January 2023 new moon

The Sabian Symbol for Aquarius 1 degree is An Unexpected Thunderstorm.

I love thunderstorms – there’s something awe-inspiring about nature’s fury. Fast winds, loud claps of thunder, flashes of lightning. It’s exciting and scary at the same time, and it makes me feel fully alive.

The storms that happen in our lives, though, can be more difficult to handle. Unexpected occurrences that upend our careful calculations and comfortable routines are generally not welcome. Yet, storms often – not always – can also make us feel more alive. They often put our inner strength and abilities to the test. In the turmoil and strife we are more awake and alive to the whole spectrum of our emotions. And if we can buckle up and go on the ride, storms can, often, liberate us.

Tarot spread for the January 2023 new moon

Here’s a tarot spread to tap into the energy of this new moon cycle.

1. Seeds: What energy are you bringing into the new year?
2. Soil: What energy or way of being will help you to nurture your dreams? Tip: Notice how these first two cards play off each other. They may indicate a growth edge for you.
3. Roots: This will represent a supportive energy, something that will help you to nurture your intentions. Tip: If you get a seemingly negative card in this position, consider what is the medicine or the lesson of the card and how that may apply to your life.
4. Shoots: The “greening” energy, the action, the motivation, the thing that adds fuel to your fire.
5. Mama moon says: This is always a positive message

If you share your spreads on Instagram, please use the hashtag #moontarotstories or tag me @moderngypsy.in so we can connect with each other.

Journaling questions for the Aquarius new moon

You can use these journaling questions instead of the tarot spread, if tarot isn’t your thing. Cardslingers, you can also use these journaling prompts for further reflection:

Identify one idea that you valued that has changed for you recently. Journal your way through any lingering confusion, or refine that value/way of being for yourself.

What’s your relationship with social media and/or with news sources? What changes, if any, do you need to make?

What sparks joy for you? Make a list. Then do at least one thing from that list everyday.

As a fun challenge: find + document moments of ordinary beauty. You can do this in your journal, or on Instagram, or with a few of your friends. Keep up this practice for as long as it feels good and interesting for you.